William James ‘Jim’ Downs, 91

William James “Jim” Downs, 91, of Rehoboth Beach, Del., passed away Wednesday, March 14, 2012.

Born June 2, 1920, in Georgetown, Del., to the late Phillip O. and Margaret G. Donovan Downs, Downs was a member of the Epworth United Methodist Church in Rehoboth Beach, where he was one of the oldest members of the church. Over the years, he held many positions in the church, including usher, Sunday-school teacher and head of the Sunday-school in the 1960s. For many years, Downs opened and closed the church, so when the new church was recently built, he had the honor of closing the church for the very last time. He was a member of the Jefferson Lodge #15 A.F.A.M. in Lewes since 1947 and was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II.

Downs and his wife, Doris, who passed away in 2003, had owned and operated since 1957 the Lord Baltimore Inn in Rehoboth, where he was the beloved innkeeper to many guests. He is survived by a daughter, M. Susan Downs; a son, W. James “Jim” Downs Jr. and his wife, Mary Lynn; and a granddaughter, Kathryn W. Downs, all of Rehoboth Beach.

A funeral and Masonic service were scheduled for March 20, 2012, at Epworth United Methodist Church in Rehoboth Beach, officiated by the Rev. Jonathan Baker and the Rev. Pat Loughlin. Interment was set for Millsboro Cemetery in Millsboro, Del. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested donations to the Epworth United Methodist Church; 19285 Holland Glade Rd.; Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971, or to American Cancer Society; P.O. Box 22718; Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718.